Dr Faith Jumbi presented a paper titled “Understanding dominant hydrological processes and mechanisms of water flow in a semi-arid mountainous catchment in South Africa” under the Water, ecosystems and the environment sub-theme. Some of the highlights of the results were that the outputs from the hydrological modelling exercise for the Kromme catchment in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa suggest that restoration and preservation of palmiet wetlands in the valley bottom will increase groundwater levels by 13%, baseflow by 9% and total outflow by 4%.

Predicted results also showed that expansion of alien invasives in the Kromme catchment could result in a 38% decrease in average annual catchment yield. Therefore, understanding catchment-scale responses to different land use and land cover types is crucial for water management decision-making. Dr Jumbi’s presentation also highlighted the significance of long-term environmental monitoring for data needed to improve hydrological modelling, particularly of critical water source areas for better resources management.

Dr Sagwati Maswanganye contributed to the symposium with a presentation on “Spatial and temporal dynamics of flows and pools along non-perennial rivers in arid and semi-arid areas, South Africa”, under the theme Changing hydro-climatic regimes and outlining strategies for climate-resilient planning. His presentation showcased the application of remote sensing technology to bridge gaps in monitoring and understanding the dynamics of non-perennial rivers.

The study showed that remote sensing can be used to attain hydrological insights such as hydrological states, pool sizes and dynamics with acceptable accuracy, information that may be unattainable through traditional river-gauging methods. The findings contribute to a better understanding and management of non-perennial rivers and catchments. The positive reception of his presentation was evident through the engaging discussions that followed. Delegates expressed a keen interest in adopting similar methodologies for their research, with some expressing a desire to apply the insights gained to practical, real-world scenarios.

Dr Retang Mokua presented a paper on “understanding the drivers of the hydrological cycle in the Jonkershoek Catchment” under the Water, ecosystems and the environment sub-theme. Her research results contribute to a better understanding of the impacts of climate variability and land use/land cover change on streamflow regimes. Furthermore, the information gathered from her work can be used to contribute towards the implementation of better water resources management strategies in mountainous catchments.

Attending conferences is important for the personal and professional development of emerging researchers as it provides opportunities to learn, network and gain insights into the latest trends and innovations in a particular field. The symposium offered a platform for knowledge dissemination, the fostering of collaborations with other hydrologists from the region and gaining new insights and methods to improve their research.  

Acknowledgements

Faith Jumbi, Retang Mokua and Sagwati Maswanganye would like to thank the management and support staff of NRF-SAEON for ensuring that the trip and attendance of the conference was a great success.